Film supply system for use with a photosensitive film imager

ABSTRACT

A film supply system for use within a photosensitive film imager. The film supply system includes a cartridge receiving apparatus and a film pick-up mechanism. The cartridge receiving apparatus includes a tray, a guide frame and an elevator mechanism. The guide frame is configured to be disposed within an imager housing. The tray includes a floor and extending walls for maintaining a film cartridge and is pivotably received by the guide frame. The tray further defines a cartridge insertion passage and moves between an elevated position and a retracted position relative to the guide frame. In the elevated position, the cartridge insertion passage is normal to a film travel path of the imager. Finally, the elevator mechanism is disposed within the imager housing and drives the tray between the elevated position and the retracted position. The film pick-up mechanism includes a retention frame, a drive frame, a drive means, a heel plate, and a cup plate. The retention frame is configured for selective attachment within the imager housing and slidably receives the drive frame. The drive frame is driven by the drive means between an extended position and a retracted position and is attached to the heel plate opposite the retention frame. The cup plate includes a suction cup and is pivotably attached to the heel plate.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for maintaining anddistributing sheets of photosensitive film within a laser imager. Moreparticularly, it relates to a system configured to receive and open acartridge of photosensitive film within an imager, and separate anddeliver individual sheets of photosensitive film from the cartridge to afilm transport system of the imager.

Light sensitive, photothermographic film is used in many applicationsranging from a standard photocopying apparatus, to graphic arts and/ormedical imaging/recording printing systems. For example, in the medicalindustry, laser imaging systems employing photothermographic film arecommonly used to produce photographic images from digital image datagenerated by magnetic resonance (MR), computer tomography (CT) or othertypes of scanners. Systems of this type typically include a laser imagerfor exposing an image on the photothermographic film, a thermofilmprocessor for developing the film through the application of heat, andan image management subsystem for coordinating the operation of thelaser imager and the thermofilm processor. The resulting image isavailable for diagnostic use by medical radiologists and communicationsto referring physicians and their patients.

Generally speaking, a photosensitive film laser imager includes a filmsupply system, a film exposure assembly, a film processing station (ordeveloper), a film dispensing area and a film transport system. Each ofthese components are associated within a relatively large imagerhousing.

Sheets of unexposed photosensitive film is normally stacked in a sealed,standardized film cartridge, for delivery to the imager. The standardfilm cartridge includes 125 sheets of film and is sealed by a foilcover. During use, the film cartridge is inserted into the film supplysystem of the imager. The film supply system normally includesmechanisms for unsealing the film cartridge and subsequently removingindividual sheets of film. In this regard, the film supply systemseparates and delivers an individual sheet of photosensitive film fromthe film cartridge to the film transport system. The film transportsystem, in turn, delivers the individual sheet of film to the filmexposure assembly. Within the film exposure assembly, photographicimages are exposed on the film from image data (e.g., digital or analog)using a laser imager. The exposed sheet of film is then transported, viathe film transport system, to the film processing station where the filmis developed. After thermal processing, the film is cooled andtransported to the film dispensing area where the final image isavailable to the user.

While the above-described laser imager has proven to be highlysuccessful, several potential drawbacks may exist. For example, the filmsupply system is normally very complex, and therefore expensive. Thefilm supply system is generally configured to define a film cartridgeinsertion path which is approximately in the direction of the planegenerated by the path in which individual sheets of film are removedfrom the cartridge within the imager housing. In other words, the filmcartridge is inserted, either horizontally or vertically, into theimager housing in the same direction that the sheets of film aresubsequently removed from the film cartridge. However, when a film jaminvariably occurs, film jam removal requires user access to the filmsupply system from a plane normal to the film path. Thus, the imagerhousing must provide user access from at least two sides of the machine,thereby increasing costs. Additionally, the film cartridge is normallymaintained by the film supply system in a horizontal, rather thanangled, position. This horizontal positioning requires an enlarged, andtherefore more expensive, housing to accommodate a full length of thefilm cartridge.

In addition to the concerns associated with film cartridge positioning,a standard film supply system also generally includes an intricate,multi-component mechanism for separating and delivering individualsheets of film to the film transport system. The film supply system mustbe designed to ensure that only a single sheet of photosensitive film isdelivered to the film transport system. In particular, it is understoodthat an interface force develops between sheets of photosensitive filmotherwise stored within a sealed cartridge. The interface force caninclude static charge, edge burrs, and suction forces, and causes two ormore sheets of photosensitive film to stick to one another. Obviously, asystem error may result if more than a single sheet of film ismistakenly forwarded to the film exposure assembly. Thus, the filmsupply system must be designed to consistently separate individualsheets of film from one another.

To accomplish desired film separation, the standard film supply systemnormally includes several mechanisms and a number of independentlydriven parts which maneuver the film sheet in different directions toeffectuate film separation. This complex approach to separating anddelivering sheets of film is normally quite expensive.

The known laser imager provides a device able to rapidly andconsistently produce laser images of high quality. However, the designof the film supply system within the imager, including cartridgeinsertion and film pick-up, is complex and relatively expensive.Therefore, a substantial need exists for a film supply system configuredto meet the design and operational constraints of a photosensitive filmlaser imager, in a cost-effective manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a film supply system for use with a laserimager. In one preferred embodiment, the film supply system includes acartridge receiving apparatus associated with a film pick-up mechanism.The cartridge receiving apparatus is preferably configured to receiveand maintain a cartridge of photosensitive film. The film pick-upmechanism, in turn, is associated with the cartridge receiving apparatusand is preferably configured to separate and deliver individual sheetsof photosensitive film from the film cartridge to a film transportsystem.

In one preferred embodiment, the film pick-up mechanism includes aretention frame, a drive frame, a drive means, a heel plate and a cupplate. The retention frame is configured for attachment within theimager and slidably receives the drive frame. In this regard, the drivemeans is configured to maneuver the drive frame relative to theretention frame. The heel plate extends from the drive frame oppositethe retention frame. The cup plate includes a pivot arm, a suction cupand a pick-up drive arm and is pivotably attached to the heel plate atthe pivot arm. The suction cup is preferably configured to selectivelyengage a sheet of photosensitive film. The pick-up drive arm isconfigured to direct movement of the cup plate.

In one preferred embodiment, the drive means of the film pick-upmechanism is configured to move the drive frame from a first, raisedposition relative to the retention frame to a second, lowered positionrelative to the retention frame in a downward stroke; and from thelowered position to the raised position in an upward stroke. During use,after a cartridge of photosensitive film has been placed into thecartridge receiving apparatus and opened, the film pick-up mechanism isoperated to retrieve a top sheet of photosensitive film from the filmcartridge. In this regard, the drive means performs the downward stroketo translate the drive frame from the raised position to the loweredposition. In the lowered position, the heel plate contacts the top sheetof film. Continued movement of the drive frame in the downward stroke incombination with directional force of the pick-up drive arm causes thecup plate to pivot relative to the heel plate at the pivot arm. Thispivoting motion is continued until the suction cup engages the top sheetof photosensitive film. In a preferred embodiment, a passive vacuum iscreated between the suction cup and the top sheet of photosensitivefilm. The drive plate is then translated through the upward stroke,imparting a bend in a portion of the top sheet of film. This bendovercomes an interface force between the top sheet of film and othersheets of film, separating the top sheet of film. Continued movement ofthe drive plate in the upward stroke transfers a leading edge of the topsheet of film to a film transport system.

In one alternative embodiment, the film pick-up mechanism includes aseparation tab associated with the cartridge receiving apparatus toassist in separating sheets of photosensitive film.

In another preferred embodiment, the cartridge receiving apparatusincludes a tray, a guide frame and an elevator mechanism. The tray isconfigured to receive a film cartridge and includes a floor andextending walls defining a cartridge insertion passage. The guide frameselectively maintains the tray and guides movement of the tray between aretracted position and an extended position. In this regard, the guideframe is configured such that in the extended position, the cartridgeinsertion passage is normal to a film travel path of the laser imager.Further, in one preferred embodiment, at the lowered position, the floorof the tray is positioned at an angle relative to a horizontal plane.Finally, the elevator mechanism is associated with the tray to translatethe tray between the retracted position and the extended position.

Use of the cartridge receiving apparatus includes activating theelevator mechanism to position the tray in the extended positionrelative to the guide frame. A user then inserts a photosensitive filmcartridge into the tray via the cartridge insertion passage. Theelevator mechanism is activated to translate the tray to the retractedposition relative to the guide frame. In the retracted position, thefilm cartridge is properly oriented to interact with the film pick-upmechanism. In one preferred embodiment, the guide frame includeslocators sized to extend through the tray to receive and maintain thefilm cartridge. In an alternative embodiment, the cartridge receivingapparatus further includes a rollback mechanism for engaging and openinga cover of the film cartridge. To this end, the guide frame and theelevator mechanism are configured to allow movement of the rollbackmechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the present invention and are incorporated andconstitute a part of the specification. The drawings illustrate theexemplary embodiments of the present invention and together with thedescription, serves to explain the principles of the invention. Otherobjects of the present invention, and many of the attendant advantagesof the present invention, will be readily appreciated as the samebecomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription, when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference numerals designate like or similarparts throughout the drawing figures, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a laser imager having a film supply system inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a cartridge receiving apparatus ofthe film supply system in an extended position in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the cartridge receiving apparatus ofFIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cartridgereceiving apparatus of FIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the cartridge receiving apparatusof FIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the cartridge receiving apparatus of FIG. 2 inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cartridgereceiving apparatus of FIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are enlarged side perspective views of an elevatormechanism of the cartridge receiving apparatus of FIG. 2 in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a right side perspective view of a film pick-up mechanism ofthe film supply system in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a left side perspective view of the film pickup mechanism ofFIG. 9 in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a right side perspective view of the film pick-up mechanismof FIG. 9 having a cup plate rotated to a cup down position inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a cup plate ofthe film pick-up mechanism of FIG. 9 in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a suction cup body in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the film pick-up mechanism of FIG. 9 inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cartridgereceiving apparatus including a separation tab in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIGS. 16-20 illustrate the steps of operating the cartridge receivingapparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 21-29 illustrate the steps of operating the film pick-up mechanismin accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 30 is a schematic view of a portion of an alternative film pick-upmechanism in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A. Laser Imaging System 30 Overview

FIG. 1 shows a front view of a laser imaging system 30 incorporating afilm supply system of the present invention. The laser imaging system 30generally includes an imager housing 32, a film supply system 34, a filmexposure assembly 36, a film processing station 38, a film exit area 40and a film transport system 42. It should be understood that each of thecomponents of the laser imaging system 30 are shown generally in FIG. 1.Further details on the laser imaging system 30, and in particular thefilm supply system 34, are described in greater detail below.

The film supply system 34, the film exposure assembly 36, the filmprocessing station 38, the film exit area 40 and the film transportsystem 42 are all disposed at various locations within the imagerhousing 32. During use, a cartridge of photosensitive film 44 is placedwithin the film supply system 34. Upon activation, the film supplysystem 34 retrieves a single sheet of photosensitive film (not shown).The sheet of photosensitive film is delivered by the film supply system34 to the film transport system 42 for delivery to the film exposureassembly 36. Within the film exposure assembly 36, photographic imagesare exposed on the film from image data (e.g., digital or analog), usinga laser imager. The thusly exposed film is then transported via the filmtransport system 42 to the film processing station 38 where the film isdeveloped. After thermal processing, the film is cooled and transportedvia the film transport system 42 to the film exit area 40. For ease ofillustration, the film travel path is represented by dashed lines 46.

As described in greater detail below, the film supply system 34 includesa cartridge receiving apparatus 48 and a film pick-up mechanism 50. Asshown in FIG. 1, the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 and the filmpick-up mechanism 50 are configured such that the film cartridge 44 isorientated at an angle so as to reduce the overall size of the imagerhousing 32. More particularly, unlike other imaging system designs, thecartridge receiving apparatus 48 is not horizontal, so that the overallwidth of the imager housing 32 can be reduced. The film pickup mechanism50, as shown in FIG. 1, is also orientated at an angle to accommodatedesired positioning of the cartridge receiving apparatus 48. As will bemade more clear below, the film pick-up mechanism 50 is preferablynormal to film within the film cartridge 44 to prevent film scuffing orother damage upon retrieval of the film by the film pick-up mechanism50.

An additional feature of the present invention generally shown in FIG. 1is that access to the imager housing 32 need only be provided at oneside. More particularly, the film cartridge 44 is inserted into thecartridge receiving apparatus 48 in a plane normal to the film travelpath 46. Correction of potential film jams within the imager housing 32requires user access in this same direction. Thus, only a single accesspoint or door is required in the imager housing 32.

B. Cartridge Receiving Apparatus 48

FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the cartridge receiving apparatus48. Notably, for ease of illustration, the cartridge receiving apparatus48 is shown separate from the remainder of the laser imager 30 (FIG. 1).

The cartridge receiving apparatus 48 includes a tray 60, a guide frame62, a film guard 64, a rollback mechanism 66 and an elevator mechanism68. The guide frame 62 and the elevator mechanism 68 are configured tobe secured within the imager housing 32 (FIG. 1). The film guard 64 andthe rollback mechanism 66 are selectively secured to the guide frame 62.The tray 60 is pivotably positioned within the guide frame 62. In thisregard, the elevator mechanism 68 controls placement of the tray 60relative to the guide frame 62. More particularly, the elevatormechanism 68 maneuvers the tray 60 relative to the guide frame 62between a raised position (FIG. 2) and a lowered position.

The tray 60 includes a floor 70, end walls 72, a side wall 74 and asocket 76. The floor 70 is preferably sized to maintain the filmcartridge 44 (FIG. 1). The end walls 72 and the side wall 74 extendupwardly from the floor 70 to maintain the film cartridge 44 relative tothe floor 70. As shown in FIG. 2, the end walls 72 and the side wall 74define a cartridge insertion path 78 through which the film cartridge 44is slid into engagement with the tray 60. In other words, the tray 60 isconfigured to direct insertion of the film cartridge 44 from a sideopposite the side wall 74.

As shown in FIG. 3, the floor 70 of the tray 60 preferably includes aplurality of locator holes 80 and a bar code opening 82. As described ingreater detail below, the locator holes 80 are sized and positioned inthe floor 70 to allow passage of locators (described below) of the guideframe 62, which otherwise facilitate proper positioning of the filmcartridge 44 (FIG. 1) on the tray 60. The bar code opening 82 ispreferably sized to accommodate reading of a bar code otherwise disposedon a bottom of the film cartridge 44. Generally speaking, the filmcartridge 44 normally includes a bar code identification on a bottomthereof. The bar code opening 82 is sized such that the bar code on thefilm cartridge 44 is accessible by a portion of the rollback mechanism66.

The side wall 74 extends upwardly from the floor 70 and includes ashoulder 84. The shoulder 84 is configured to be pivotably attached tothe guide frame 62. Thus, the shoulder 84 defines a tray pivot pointalong which the tray 60 is maneuverable, via the elevator mechanism 68,between the raised position and the lowered position.

The socket 76 is shown best in FIG. 4 as extending from a lower surfaceof the floor 70. Notably, to better illustrate the socket 76, the tray60 is shown in the lowered position in FIG. 4. The socket 76 isconfigured to mate with a portion of the elevator mechanism 68, asdescribed in greater detail below. In a preferred embodiment, the socket76 is positioned adjacent a leading edge of the floor 70. In otherwords, the socket 76 extends from the floor 70 opposite the side wall 74(FIG. 2). Alternatively, the socket 76 can be positioned at otherlocations along the floor 70 so long as engagement with the elevatormechanism 68 is accomplished. Even further, the socket 76 can bereplaced by other configurations designed to selectively receive aportion of the elevator mechanism 68.

In a preferred embodiment, the tray 60 is formed of a rigid material,such as sheet metal. The tray 60 is preferably a singular body, with theend walls 72 and the side wall 74 formed by a bending process.Alternatively, the end walls 72 and the side wall 74 can be welded orotherwise attached to the floor 70. Similarly, the socket 76 is weldedor otherwise attached to the floor 70.

Returning to FIGS. 2 and 3, the guide frame 62 approximates an opencompartment and includes first and second side walls 86, 88, first andsecond end walls 90, 92 and a bottom 94. The first and second side walls86, 88 and the first and second end walls 90, 92 extend upwardly fromopposite sides of the bottom 94, respectively. The first and second sidewalls 86, 88 each include a lip 96 along an upper edge thereof. Further,as shown in FIG. 2, an elevator head passage 98 is defined by the bottom94 and the first side wall 86. The elevator head passage 98 ispreferably sized to allow passage of a portion of the elevator mechanism68 into and out of contact with the socket 76 of the tray 60.

The bottom 94 includes first and second aperture locators 100, 102, andfirst and second support locators 104, 106, best shown in FIG. 3. Theaperture locators 100, 102 are preferably tapered at a leading end andextend from the bottom 94 at positions configured to interact withreciprocal apertures (not shown) on a bottom of the film cartridge 44(FIG. 1). Similarly, the first and second support locators 104, 106extend from the bottom 94 at positions configured to abut reciprocalsupports (not shown) on a bottom of the film cartridge 44. In otherwords, a standard film cartridge normally includes two apertures and twosupports formed at a bottom of the film cartridge 44. The aperturelocators 100, 102 are appropriately sized to nest within the apertures,whereas the support locators 104, 106 abut the supports. In this regard,the locators 100-106 preferably extend from the bottom 94 of the guideframe 62 to a height greater than a thickness of the floor 70 of thetray 60. Thus, when the floor 70 of the tray 60 is pivoted to rest ontop of the bottom 94 of the guide frame 62, the locators 100-106 extendthrough the respective locator holes 80 and engage the apertures andsupports (not shown) of the film cartridge 44 (FIG. 1).

As shown in FIG. 5, the bottom 94 of the guide frame 62 further includesrollback slides 108. The rollback slides 108 extend from a lower surfaceof the bottom 94 and are configured to selectively receive and maintainthe rollback mechanism 66. More particularly, the rollback slides 108facilitate translation of the rollback mechanism 66 relative to theguide frame 62, as described in more detail below.

In a preferred embodiment, the guide frame 62 is made from a rigidmaterial such as sheet metal. Standard sheet metal manufacturingtechniques can be employed to form the bottom 94, the side walls 86, 88and the end walls 90, 92. Additionally, the lip 96 and the elevator headpassage 98 can also be formed via sheet metal manufacturing techniques.Finally, the locators 100-106 are preferably made of a plastic materialand are attached to the bottom 94 by screws. Alternatively, other formsof attachment, such a welding or an adhesive, may also be useful.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the film guard 64 includes a guard attachmentframe 110, a pivot 112, biasing means 114, a lever arm 116 and a coverplate 118. The guard attachment frame 110 is attached to the guide frame62 and to the lever arm 116 at the pivot 112. The cover plate 118 isattached to, and extends perpendicularly from, the lever arm 116.Finally, the biasing means 114 biases the cover plate 118 toward theguard attachment frame 110 about the pivot 112.

As best shown in FIG. 6, the guard attachment frame 110 is anapproximately L-shaped body including a shoulder 120, an extension plate122 and tabs 124. The shoulder 120, the extension plate 122 and the tabs124 are preferably formed as a singular body. Further, the tabs 124 aredisposed at opposite sides of the extension plate 122. While only one ofthe tabs 124 is shown in FIG. 6, it should be understood that a secondone of the tabs 124 is disposed at an opposite side of the extensionplate 122.

The shoulder 120 is preferably configured for attachment to the firstend wall 90 of the guide frame 62. The extension plate 122 extends fromthe shoulder 120 in an angular fashion, and is configured to retain aportion of the biasing means 114. In a preferred embodiment, theshoulder 120 and the extension plate 122 are sized to extend along theentire length of the first end wall 90 of the guide frame 62. Finally,the tabs 124 extend from the extension plate 122 and are configured toreceive a portion of the pivot 112. In a preferred embodiment, the guardattachment frame 110 is an integral body, formed from a rigid material,such as stainless steel. However, other materials, such as reinforcedplastic, may also be useful.

The hinge 112 is configured to provide pivoting attachment between theguard attachment frame 110 and the lever arm 116. In this regard, thepivot 112 preferably includes two shoulder bolts, each configured toconnect the lever arm 116 to one of the tabs 124 of the guard attachmentframe 110. Alternatively, the pivot 112 can assume other formssufficient to provide pivotable attachment between the guard attachmentframe 110 and the lever arm 116.

The biasing means 114 is configured to bias the cover plate 118 towardthe guard attachment frame 110 and is preferably two extension springs,disposed at opposite sides of the guard attachment frame 110 as shown inFIG. 5. Notably, portions of the biasing means 114 are hidden in FIGS. 5and 6. With this preferred design, each of the two extension springs areattached at opposite ends to the shoulder 120 of the guard attachmentframe 110 and the cover plate 118, respectively. In this regard, theshoulder 120 and the cover plate 118 may include clips to receive thesprings 114. While the biasing means 114 is preferably in the form oftwo extension springs, other forms, such as a mechanical hingepositioned on an exterior of the guard attachment frame 110 and thelever arm 116, may also be useful.

The lever arm 116 is preferably a singular body extending from the pivot112, having a length approximating that of the extension plate 122.Further, the lever arm 116 terminates at opposite ends with an openingsized to receive a portion of the pivot 112. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6,then, the lever arm 116 is sized to abut an interior portion of the tabs124 of the guard attachment frame 110 such that openings in the twocomponents are aligned. Finally, the lever arm 116 is configured forattachment to a portion of the biasing means 114. In the preferredembodiment, the lever arm 116 is made of a rigid material such as steel.

As shown in FIG. 7, the cover plate 118 includes a rollback clearancetab 126, separation tabs 128, downward film tab 130 and upward film tabs132. Each of the rollback clearance tab 126, the separation tabs 128,the downward film tab 130 and the upward film tabs 132 are preferablyformed at a leading edge 134 of the cover plate 118.

In a preferred embodiment, cover plate 118 is configured to maneuver,via the biasing means 114 (FIGS. 5 and 6), from a disengaged position(FIG. 7) to an engaged position in which the cover plate 118 abuts theguide frame 62. The rollback clearance tab 126, the downward film tab130 and the upward film tabs 132 are preferably integral with the coverplate 118. For reasons made clear elsewhere, the separation tabs 128 arepreferably made separate from the cover plate 118.

The rollback clearance tab 126 extends from the leading edge 134 of thecover plate 118 and preferably is curved. In this regard, the rollbackclearance tab 126 assists in receiving a portion of the rollbackmechanism 66 to position the film guard 64 in the disengaged position(FIG. 7).

The separation tabs 128 preferably extend from the leading edge 134 ofthe cover plate 118 such that in the engaged position, the separationtabs 128 extend over a portion of the film guard 64. The separation tabs128, though associated with cover plate 118, are more properly describedwith reference to the film pick-up mechanism 50 (FIG. 1) as theseparation tabs 128 form an important part of the functioning of thefilm pick-up mechanism 50. Therefore, details on the separation tabs areprovided below.

The downward film tab 130 extends downwardly from the leading edge 134of the cover plate 118 in an approximately perpendicular fashion. Moreparticularly, the downward film tab 130 is preferably configured suchthat in the engaged position, the downward film tab 130 preventsaccidental movement of film (not shown) under or below the cover plate118.

Similarly, the upward film tabs 132 extend upwardly from the leadingedge 134 of the cover plate 118 in an approximately perpendicularfashion. More particularly, the upward film tabs 132 are preferablyconfigured such that in the engaged position, the upward film tabs 132prevent accidental movement of film (not shown) over or above the coverplate 118, for example during film pick-p.

Except for the separation tabs 128, the cover plate 118 is preferablyformed of a rigid material such as sheet metal. In this regard, thecover plate 118, including the rollback clearance tab 126, downward filmtab 130 and the upward film tabs 132 are formed by known sheet metalmanufacturing techniques. The separation tabs 128, however, arepreferably plastic. It should be understood that while FIG. 7 shows onepreferred embodiment, the various tabs 126-132 can be altered in termsof size, placement and number. For example, while two upward film tabs132 have been shown extending from an approximately central portion ofthe cover plate 118, a greater or lesser number could be provided.Further, the upward film tabs 132 can be positioned at differentlocations along the leading edge 134 of the cover plate 118.

The rollback mechanism 66 is of a type commonly known in the art andincludes a carriage 140, opposing rollback links 142a and 142b, opposingtorsion springs 144, an elongated shaft 146 and a rollback motor 148. Asshown in FIG. 7, the opposing rollback links 142a and 142b are attachedto opposite sides of the carriage 140, respectively, and each are biasedby one of the opposing torsion springs 144. The elongated shaft 146extends between the opposing rollback links 142a, 142b and is driven bythe rollback motor 148.

The carriage 140 is an elongated drawer-like body configured to slidablyengage the rollback slides 108 (FIG. 5) of the guide frame 62 andincludes side walls 150 and a base 151. The side walls 150 are attachedto the base 151 and are configured to extend along an outer edge of theguide frame 62. While only one of the side walls 150 is shown in FIG. 7,it should be understood that a second one of the side walls 150 isdisposed at an opposite side of the guide frame 62. The base 151 issized to extend along the bottom 94 (FIG. 5) of the guide frame 62 andincludes slots (not shown) configured to be translatably received by therollback slides 108. In a preferred embodiment, the carriage 140 isformed of a rigid material, such as sheet metal. The side walls 150 canbe manufactured separately from the base 151, or the carriage 140 can bea singular, integral body.

The opposing rollback links 142a, 142b are each configured to extendfrom opposite sides of the carriage 140, respectively, and receive aportion of the elongated shaft 146. The opposing rollback links 142a,142b are each further configured to maintain a portion of one of theopposing torsion springs 144, an opposite end of which is attached to anassociated one of the side walls 150 of the carriage 140. Thus, each oneof the opposing rollback links 142a, 142b are rotatable with respect tothe carriage 140 and are biased to the position shown in FIG. 7 by oneof the opposing torsion springs 144. Finally, one of the opposingrollback links 142a includes a cylindrical cam 156 configured to engagethe rollback clearance tab 126. The opposing rollback links 142a, 142bare preferably made of a rigid material, such as steel, to support theelongated shaft 146 and the motor 148 relative to the carriage 140.Notably, only one of the opposing torsion springs 144 is shown in FIG. 7and other biasing means other than the opposing torsion springs 144 mayalso be useful.

The elongated shaft 146 is configured to extend between the opposingrollback links 142a, 142b and preferably defines teeth 152 and opposingends 154, and includes a knob 158. Further, one end of the elongatedshaft 146 is configured to be driven by the motor 148. The teeth 152 arepreferably sized to engage a perforated leading edge of the filmcartridge 44 (FIG. 1), as described below. Each of the opposing ends 154are configured for surface engagement with a portion of the filmcartridge 44. Finally, the knob 158 is disposed at an end of theelongated shaft 146 opposite the rollback motor 148. The knob 158provides for manual rotation of the elongated shaft 146. In a preferredembodiment, the elongated shaft 146 is a cylindrical body extendingbetween the opposing ends 154, and the separately formed teeth 152 areattached to the body. The elongated shaft 146 is preferably a stainlesssteel core encompassed by a urethane coating, although other materialsmay also be useful.

The rollback motor 148 is of a type commonly known in the art and isattached to the elongated shaft 146. The rollback motor 148 is furthersupported by one of the opposing rollback links 142. With thisconfiguration, the rollback motor 148 rotates the elongated shaft 146relative to the opposing rollback links 142a, 142b.

Operation of the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 is described ingreater detail below. Generally speaking, however, the film guard 64 andthe rollback mechanism 66 interact as follows. Prior to use, the filmguard 64 is forced against the rollback mechanism 66 as shown in FIG. 7.In particular, the biasing means 114 (FIG. 6) pivots the cover plate 118into contact with the cam surface 156 of the rollback link 142a.Following placement of the film cartridge 44 (FIG. 1) within the guideframe 62, the rollback motor 148 is activated to rotate the elongatedshaft 146. The teeth 152 engage a perforated section of a cartridgecover (not shown), causing the elongated shaft 146 to advance relativeto the film cartridge 44. The entire rollback mechanism 66 then movesforward along the guide frame 62 via the carriage 140. As the rollbackmechanism 66 moves away from the film guard 64, the cover plate 118 isreleased from the cam surface 156, and the biasing means 114 pivots thecover plate 118 into engagement with the guide frame 62. Conversely,when the rollback mechanism 66 is driven toward the film guard 64, thecam surface 156 contacts the rollback clearance tab 126. Due to thecurved configuration of the rollback clearance tab 126, continuedmovement of the elongated shaft 146 toward the film guard 62 lifts thecover plate 118 on top of the cam surface 156 until the home position,shown in FIG. 7, is achieved.

As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the elevator mechanism 68 includes anelevator housing 170, pivotable attachment means 172, a motor frame 174,a sensor 176, a motor 178 (shown partially in FIGS. 8A and 8B), and alinear actuator 180. The elevator housing 170 is disposed within theimager housing 32 (FIG. 1) and maintains the motor frame 174 via thepivotable attachment means 172. The motor frame 174 retains the motor178 which in turn drives the linear actuator 180. Finally, the sensor176 is associated with the motor frame 174 to sense positioning of thelinear actuator 180.

The elevator housing 170 includes a top surface 182, defining an opening184, and an opposing pair of flanges 186. The opening 184 is preferablysized to receive and allow passage of the linear actuator 180. Theopposing pair of flanges 186 extend from opposite sides of the opening184 and are configured to receive a portion of the pivotable attachmentmeans 172. In a preferred embodiment, the elevator housing 170 is formedfrom a rigid material, such as steel. Alternatively, other strongmaterials may also be useful.

The motor frame 174 is configured to maintain the motor 178 and thelinear actuator 180, and includes opposing walls 190 and a shoulder 192.As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the opposing walls 190 are preferablyspaced to abut the opposing pair of flanges 186 of the elevator housing170 and receive a portion of the pivotable attachment means 172. In apreferred embodiment, the motor frame 174 maintains the motor 178 andthe linear actuator 180 normal or near normal to the tray 60 (FIG. 2).Finally, the shoulder 192 is preferably sized to receive and maintainthe sensor 176.

As previously described, the elevator housing 170 and the motor frame174 are configured to receive the pivotable attachment means 172. Inthis regard, each of the pivotable attachment means 172 is preferably apair of shoulder bolts, each passing through one of the opposing pair offlanges 186 of the elevator housing 170 and secured to one of theopposing walls 190 of the motor frame 174. With this configuration, thepivotable attachment means 172 allows the motor frame 174, and thus thelinear actuator 180, to pivot relative to the elevator housing 170during operation. In one preferred embodiment, the pivotable attachmentmeans 172 further includes a plunger 194 extending from the elevatorhousing 170 into a slot (not shown) in the motor frame 174. The plunger194 serves to limit rotational movement of the motor frame 174, and thusthe linear actuator 180, relative to the elevator housing 170 such thatthe linear actuator 180 can track movement of the tray 60.

The sensor 176 is preferably a switch-type sensor commonly known in theart and includes, as best shown in FIG. 8B, guide blocks 196 forming areceiving groove 198 and a port 200. The guide blocks 196 areappropriately spaced such that the receiving groove 198 is sized toreceive a portion of the linear actuator 180, as described in greaterdetail below. In this regard, the sensor 176 is preferably configured tosense presence of a portion of the linear actuator 180 within thereceiving groove 198. The port 200 is configured for attachment to aplug (not shown) and associated wiring (not shown) to relay a signalfrom the sensor 176 to a controller (not shown). Alternatively, thesensor 176 can assume other forms sufficient to sense and signallocation of a portion of the linear actuator 180.

The motor 178 is preferably a linear stepper motor commonly known in theart and is powered by a power source (not shown). In this regard, themotor 178 is configured to drive the linear actuator 180, as dictated bythe motor frame 174, between a lowered position (FIG. 8A) and a raisedposition (FIG. 8B). Therefore, the motor 178 may assume other formscapable of producing this desired movement.

The linear actuator 180 includes a cylinder 202, a shaft 204 and a head206. While preferably not pneumatic, the linear actuator 180approximates a piston-like form. The shaft 204 is slidably disposedwithin the cylinder 202 and is driven by the motor 178. The head 206extends from the shaft 204 opposite the motor 178 and includes a conicalside wall 208 and a spherical leading end 210.

As previously described, the linear actuator 180 is preferablyconfigured to be driven via the motor 178. In this regard, the cylinder202 guides movement of the shaft 204 between the lowered and raisedpositions. The cylinder 202 and the shaft 204 are preferably made of arigid material, such as steel.

The head 206 is preferably configured such that the conical side wall208 engages the sensor 176 in the retracted position (FIG. 8A). Thus, alower end of the conical side wall 208 forms a rib sized to fit withinthe receiving groove 198 of the sensor 176. The spherical leading end210 is preferably in the shape of a ball sized to selectively nestwithin the socket 76 (FIG. 4) of the tray 60 (FIG. 4) in the extendedposition. In one preferred embodiment, the head 206 is formed of analuminum material. Alternatively, other materials, such as steel, mayalso be useful.

Returning to FIG. 2, the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 is constructedbasically as follows. The elevator mechanism 68 is disposed within theimager housing 32 (FIG. 1) such that the linear actuator 180 (FIG. 8B)extends and retracts in an angular fashion relative to a horizontalplane. The guide frame 62 is similarly secured in an angular fashionwithin the imager housing 32 such that the elevator head passage 98 isaligned with the linear actuator 180. The tray 60 is pivotably securedto the guide frame 62 at the shoulder 84. The film guard 64 is attachedto the guide frame 62. Finally, the carriage 140 (FIG. 7) of therollback mechanism 66 is secured to the rollback slides 108 (FIG. 5) ofthe guide frame 62. As previously described, prior to use, the rollbackmechanism 66 is positioned such that the film guard 64 is biased to theposition shown in FIG. 2.

Operation of the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 is described in detailbelow.

C. Film Pick-Up Mechanism 50

FIGS. 9 and 10 show a preferred embodiment of the film pick-up mechanism50. Notably, for ease of illustration, the film pick-up mechanism 50 isshown in FIGS. 9 and 10 in a substantially vertical orientation asopposed to the preferred angular orientation within the imager housing32 (FIG. 1). The film pick-up mechanism 50 includes a pick-up attachmenthousing 220, a retention frame 222, a drive means 224, a drive frame226, a heel plate 228 and a cup plate 230. The pick-up attachmenthousing 220 is configured to be selectively secured within the imagerhousing 32 (FIG. 1). The retention frame 222 is secured to the pick-upattachment housing 220 and slidably receives the drive frame 226. Thedrive means 224 is configured to maneuver the drive frame 226 relativeto the retention frame 222. The heel plate 228 extends from the driveframe 226 opposite the retention frame 222. Finally, the cup plate 230is pivotably attached to the heel plate 228.

The pick-up attachment housing 220 is preferably a singular body definedby a leading wall 232, side walls 234 and a back wall 236. The leadingwall 232 includes clearance openings 238 sized to allow passage of aportion of the drive frame 226 during use.

In a preferred embodiment, the pick-up attachment housing 220 is formedof a rigid material, such as sheet metal. The various components arepreferably formed through a bending process. Alternatively, otherlightweight materials may also be useful and the components attached byadhesives, welds, screws, etc.

The retention frame 222 includes a base 240, a top wall 242, opposingside walls 244, frame slides 246, a driver sensor 248 and a plunger 250.The base 240, the top wall 242 and the opposing side walls 244 arepreferably a singular body attached to the pick-up attachment housing220. The frame slides 246 extend from a front surface of the base 240.The driver sensor 248 is disposed along one of the opposing side walls244. Finally, the plunger 250 is attached to the other of the opposingside walls 244.

The base 240 is a relatively flat body defining an opening 251, andincludes a reinforcement 252 and flanges 253 on a rear side thereof, asbest shown in FIG. 10. The opening 251 is preferably sized to enableactivation of the drive means 224, as described in greater detail below.The reinforcement 252 provides additional stability during use. Finally,the flanges 253 are configured to provide attachment surfaces formaintaining portions of the drive means 224.

The top wall 242 and the opposing side walls 244 are configured toextend from the base 240 as shown in FIG. 9. The top wall 242 preferablyincludes clearance openings 255 positioned to correspond with theclearance openings 238 in the leading wall 232 of the pick-up attachmenthousing 220. Each of the opposing side walls 244 includes a frame shelf254 configured to selectively abut a portion of the cup plate 230 asdescribed in greater detail below. In this regard, each of the frameshelves 254 of the opposing side walls 244 includes a substantiallyhorizontal section 256 and an angled section 258. In one preferredembodiment, the horizontal section 256 and the angled section 258 ofeach of the opposing side walls 244 forms a lip extending in a generallyperpendicular fashion from the opposing side walls 244. Finally, in apreferred embodiment, each of the side walls 244 forms a hook 259. Thehooks 259 are configured to mate with a portion of the imager housing 32(FIG. 1) to assist in selectively securing the film pick-up mechanism 50within the imager housing 32.

In a preferred embodiment, the base 240, the top wall 242 and theopposing side walls 244 are made from a relatively rigid material, suchas sheet metal. With this material, the top wall 242 and the opposingside walls 244 can be formed relative to the base 240 via standard sheetmetal bending techniques. Alternatively, other materials and attachmentmethods may also be useful.

The frame slides 246 are configured to extend in a parallel fashionalong the base 240 to slidably receive a portion of the drive frame 226.In a preferred embodiment, the frame slides 246 are made of a relativelyrigid material, such as steel, and are fastened to the base 240 by wayof screws 260. Alternatively, other forms of attachment, such as anadhesive, rivets or weld, may also be useful.

As best shown in FIG. 9, the driver sensor 248 is of a type commonlyknown in the art configured to sense the presence of a portion of thedrive frame 226, described in greater detail below. The driver sensor248 is preferably a switch-type sensor, configured to deliver a signalvia wires (not shown) to a controller (not shown) indicative ofpositioning of the drive frame 226 relative to the retention frame 222.Alternatively, the driver sensor 248 may assume other forms.

The plunger 250 includes a plunger frame 262, a shaft 264 and a spring266. The plunger frame 262 slidably maintains the shaft 264. Further,the spring 266 is disposed within the plunger frame 262 and biases theshaft 264 toward a forward end 268 of the plunger frame 262. Finally,the plunger frame 262 is configured to be attached to a portion of oneof the opposing side walls 244. As explained in greater detail below,location of the plunger 250 along the one of the opposing side walls 244is made relative to a portion of the drive frame 226 such that a portionof the drive frame 226 contacts the shaft 264 at a desired position ofthe drive frame 226 relative to the retention frame 222.

The drive means 224, shown best in FIG. 10, includes a rack 270, apinion 272, a motor frame 274, a motor 276 and a biasing means 278. Therack 270 is attached to the drive frame 226 and is configured toselectively engage the pinion 272. The pinion 272 is driven by the motor276, which is maintained relative to the retention frame 222 by themotor frame 274 and the biasing means 278.

The rack 270 is of a type commonly known in the art, configured forattachment to a rear portion of the drive frame 226. In this regard, therack 270 is made of a strong, rigid material, such as steel, machined toform a toothed top surface. The rack 270 can be made of other materials,however, and is preferably attached to the drive frame 226 by screws.Other forms of attachment, such as welding, adhesive, etc., may also beuseful.

The pinion 272 is a disc-shaped body having a toothed outercircumference configured to mate with the rack 270. In a preferredembodiment, the pinion 272 is made of plastic, although other rigidmaterials may also be useful.

The motor frame 274 is configured to pivotably secure the motor 276 tothe retention frame 222 and includes an upper portion 280 and a lowerclip 282. The upper portion 280 is configured to mate within the motorreceiving flanges 253 of the retention frame 222. In this regard, theupper portion 280 is maintained within the motor receiving flanges 253by shoulder bolts 286. With this preferred design, the motor 276, andthus the pinion 272, can pivot relative to the rack 270. The lower clip282 is configured to receive and maintain a portion of the biasing means278. In a preferred embodiment, the motor frame 274 is made of a rigidmaterial, such as steel. Alternatively, other materials may also beuseful.

The motor 276 is preferably a DC gear motor having a shaft attached tothe pinion 272 by a dowel pin 287. With this arrangement, the motor 276rotates the pinion 272 when activated. The motor 276 is preferablypowered by an external power source (not shown) connected to the motor276 by wiring (not shown). Alternatively, the motor 276 may assume otherforms commonly known in the art and may be powered by other types ofpower supplies.

The biasing means 278 is preferably a spring configured for attachmentat opposite ends to the lower clip 282 of the motor frame 274 and theretention frame 222, respectively. With this preferred configuration,the biasing means 278 biases the motor frame 274, and therefore themotor 276, toward the retention frame 222 such that constant contactbetween the rack 270 and the pinion 272 is achieved. Notably, thebiasing means 278, while preferably a spring, can assume other forms,such as a rigid connector.

The drive frame 226 includes a base 290, opposing side walls 292, a head294, heel slides 296, a pressure relief valve 298 and biasing means 300(described below with reference to FIG. 11). The base 290 is slidablymaintained by the retention frame 222. The heel slides 296 are attachedto the base 290. Similarly, the pressure relief valve 298 is attached tothe base 290. Finally, the biasing means 300 extends between the driveframe 226 and the cup plate 230.

In one preferred embodiment, the base 290, the opposing side walls 292and the head 294 are formed as a singular body. As shown in FIG. 9, theopposing side walls 292 and the head 294 extend from the base 290 in agenerally perpendicular fashion.

As shown in FIG. 10, a rear side of the base 290 is configured toreceive the rack 270 of the drive means 224. In this regard, the rack270 is disposed centrally along a length of the base 290. Conversely, asshown in FIG. 10, a front side view the base 290 includes a drivepositioning tab 301, and is configured to receive and maintain the heelslides 296. In this regard, the heel sides 296 are configured toslidably receive the heel plate 228.

The opposing side walls 292 are approximately identical, extending fromthe base 290 in a perpendicular fashion. Each of the opposing side walls292 forms a slot 302 at a lower end thereof. As described in greaterdetail below, each of the slots 302 are sized to slidably receive aportion of the cup plate 230.

The head 294 extends in a perpendicular fashion from the base 290 andincludes a sensor tab 304. The sensor tab 340 extends downwardly fromthe head 294, generally parallel to the base 290. The sensor tab 304 ispreferably sized to provide an indication of the position of the heelplate 228 and the cup plate 230 relative to the drive frame 226, asdescribed below.

In a preferred embodiment, the base 290, the opposing side walls 292 andthe head 294 are formed from a relatively rigid material, such as steel.Importantly, the opposing side walls 292 and the head 294 must beaffixed to the base 290 so as to maintain their generally perpendicularorientation. In this regard, the opposing side walls 292 and the head294 may be formed relative to the base 290 by a bending process, or maybe secured to the base 290 by a weld or other attachment. Alternatively,other rigid materials, such as reinforced plastic, may also be useful.

The pressure relief valve 298 is preferably a poppet-type valve commonlyknown in the art and includes an inlet 306, a valve body 308 and a stem310. The inlet 306 is attached to tubing 311 otherwise connected tosuction cups of the cup plate 230 to form a closed pressure system. Thevalve body 308 is fluidly connected to the inlet 306 for receiving andmaintaining pressurized fluid. Additionally, the valve body 308 isconfigured to be attached to one of the opposing side walls 292 of thedrive frame 226 by a threaded nut. Finally, the stem 310 is designed toselectively release pressurized fluid otherwise maintained within thevalve body 308. With this preferred configuration, the pressure reliefvalve 298 is able to provide a passive vacuum during operation. Itshould be recognized, however, that other designs configured tofacilitate retrieval of sheets of photosensitive film are equallyacceptable.

With reference to FIG. 11, the biasing means 300 are preferably twosprings extending between the base 290 of the drive frame 226 and thecup plate 230. For purposes of illustrating the preferred biasing means300, FIG. 11 depicts the cup plate 230 as being rotated downwardlyrelative to the drive frame 226. Generally, the biasing means 300 isconfigured to bias, or rotate, the cup plate 230 upwardly or toward thedrive frame 226. It will be recognized, therefore, that the biasingmeans 300 can be replaced by other devices configured to achieve thesame result.

Returning to FIGS. 9 and 10, the heel plate 228 includes a centralportion 312, a film contact body 314, a cup engage sensor 316 and filmsensors 318a and 318b. The central portion 312 is configured to beslidably received within the drive frame 226 such that the film contactbody 314 extends away from the drive frame 226. The cup engage sensor316 is positioned on the central portion 312 to selectively interactwith the drive positioning tab 304. Finally, the film sensors 318a and318b are disposed along the film contact body 314.

The central portion 312 is preferably a singular body configured to beslidably received by the heel slides 296. In this regard, the centralportion 312 is appropriately sized to fit between the opposing sidewalls 292 of the drive frame 226, as well as clear the pressure reliefvalve 298. The central portion 312 is defined by an upper edge 320 andterminates in the film contact body 314. The central portion 312 ispreferably made of a strong, rigid material, such as steel.Alternatively, other rigid materials may also be useful.

The film contact body 314 preferably includes a rounded outer surfaceand is defined by opposing ends 322. In this regard, the rounded outersurface is configured to interact with a layer of film (not shown)without causing any damage thereto, and may include an adhesive backedfoam to minimize potential damage. In a preferred embodiment, thecentral portion 312 and the film contact body 314 are formed as asingular body, but may be manufactured separately.

The cup engage sensor 316 is preferably a switch-type sensor commonlyknown in the art and is positioned near the upper edge 320 of thecentral portion 312. In this regard, the cup engage sensor 316 is sizedto selectively receive the drive positioning tab 304 of the drive frame226. Thus, the cup engage sensor 316 is configured to sense positioningof the heel plate 228 relative to the drive frame 226 via the drivepositioning tab 304. As will become more clear with reference to the cupplate 230, the cup engage sensor 316 and the drive positioning tab 304also serve to provide an indication of rotational position of the cupplate 230. Generally speaking, the drive positioning tab 304 will engagethe cup engage sensor 316 only when the cup plate 230 has been rotatedto a predetermined position as dictated by the heel plate 228. It willbe recalled that the heel plate 228 is slidably connected to the driveframe 226. Thus, due to this interaction between the drive frame 226,the heel plate 228 and the cup plate 230, the cup engage sensor 316 ispositioned to interact with the drive positioning tab 304 upon rotationof the cup plate 230 to the predetermined position. The cup engagesensor 316 is connected to an external controller (not shown) by wiring(not shown) to provide a signal indicative of this positioning.

The first and second film sensors 318a and 318b are secured to the filmcontact body 314 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, and each include anextension arm 324. The first and second film sensors 318a and 318b arepreferably switch-type sensors commonly known in the art. In thisregard, the extension arm 324 of each of the first and second filmsensors 318a and 318b is retractable relative to the film contact body314. Thus, upon contact with an article, such as a sheet of film, theextension arm 324 of each of the first and second film sensors 318a and318b retracts toward the film contact body 314. The first and secondfilm sensors 318a and 318b provide a signal indicative of thisretraction to an external controller (not shown) via wiring (not shown).While the first and second film sensors 318a and 318b have beenpreferably described as being switch-type sensors, other sensors havingthe ability to ascertain contact with an article, such as a sheet offilm, may also be useful.

The cup plate 230 includes a base 326, a neck 328, an opposing pair ofshort rollers 330, an opposing pair of long rollers 332, a plurality ofsuction cup bodies 334 and an opposing pair of pivot arms 336. The base326 and the neck 328 preferably form an integral body. The opposing pairof short rollers 330 extend from opposite sides of the base 326,respectively. Similarly, the opposing pair of pivot arms 336 extend fromopposite sides of the base 326, respectively. The opposing pair of longrollers 332 extend from opposite sides of the neck 328, respectively.Finally, the plurality of cup bodies 334 are maintained by the base 326.

The base 326 and the neck 328 are preferably formed as a singular bodymade of a rigid material, such as steel. The base 326 includes aplurality of slots 338. Each of the plurality of slots 338 are sized toreceive and maintain a portion of one of the plurality of suction cupbodies 334, as described in greater detail below.

The opposing pair of pivot arms 336 extend from the base 326, oppositethe neck 328. Each of the opposing pair of pivot arms 336 is preferablyconfigured to be pivotably attached to one of the opposing ends 322 ofthe film contact body 314, such as by a shoulder bolt 340, therebydefining a pivot point. Thus, as shown in FIG. 9, the cup plate 230 isrotatable relative to the heel plate 228 at the pivot point 340. In apreferred embodiment, the opposing pair of pivot arms 336 are formed ofa rigid material, such as steel, and are welded to the base 326.Alternatively, the base 326 and the opposing pair of pivot arms 336 maybe integrally formed.

The opposing pair of short rollers 330 are configured to be attached to,and extend from, opposite sides of the base 326, respectively. Further,each of the opposing pair of short rollers 330 are sized to be slidablyreceived within one of the slots 302 of the drive frame 226, such thateach of the opposing pair of short rollers 330 will preferably rotate orslide within the slot 302. In this regard, each of the opposing pair ofshort rollers 330 is preferably rotatable, made of a low-friction,wearable material, such as plastic. Alternatively, other materials, suchas steel may also be useful.

The opposing pair of long rollers 332 are configured to be attached to,and extend from, opposite sides of the neck 328, respectively. In thisregard, each of the opposing pair of long rollers 332 is sized to extendfrom the neck 328 a sufficient distance to contact the frame shelf 254when the cup plate 230 is raised relative to the retention frame 222. Ina preferred embodiment, each of the opposing pair of long rollers 332 isconfigured to roll along the frame shelf 254, although a sliding contactmay also be provided. Each of the opposing pair of long rollers 332 ispreferably made of a low-friction, wearable material, such as plastic.Alternatively, other materials, such as plastic or rubber, may also beuseful.

Each of the plurality of suction cup bodies 334 includes a suction cup342, connection bolt 344, retaining means 346 and an outlet 348, asshown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The suction cup 348 is fluidly connected tothe connection bolt 344, which in turn is fluidly connected to theoutlet 348. The retaining means 346 slidably attaches the connectionbolt 344 to the base 326 of the cup plate 230.

The suction cup 342 is preferably made of a flexible material, such asan elastomer or rubber, designed to seal against a sheet ofphotosensitive film. Alternatively, other forms of material may also beuseful.

The connection bolt 344 includes a central passage 350 and is preferablysized to be slidably maintained within one of the plurality of slots 338in the base 326. The connection bolt 344 is configured to receive thesuction cup 342 at an inlet end 352 and the outlet 348 at an exit end354. In this regard, the central passage 350 extends from the inlet end352 to the exit end 354 such that the connection bolt 344 provides afluid connection between the suction cup 342 and the outlet 348.Finally, in a preferred embodiment, the exit end 354 of the connectionbolt 344 is exteriorly threaded.

The retaining means 346 is configured to maintain the connection bolt344, and thus the attached suction cup 342 and the outlet 348, relativeto the base 326. In one preferred embodiment, the retaining means 146includes a washer 356, a slider 358 defining a shoulder 359, a clip 360,a spring 362 and a lock nut 364. The washer 356 and the slider 358 areconfigured to be coaxially disposed about the connection bolt 344. Theclip 360 is similarly sized to ride over the connection bolt 344 and isconfigured to receive an end of the spring 362. An opposite end of thespring 362 is configured to be attached to the neck 328. Finally, thelock nut 364 is configured to threadably engage an exterior surface ofthe exit end 354 of the connection bolt 344.

With reference to FIG. 13, the retaining means 346 secures theconnection bolt 344 within the slot 338 in the base 326 basically asfollows. The washer 356 is coaxially placed over the connection bolt344, which is then placed within the slot 338. Thus, the washer 356abuts a bottom surface of the base 326. The slider 358 is coaxiallydisposed over the connection bolt 344, such that the slider 358 abuts atop surface of the base 326 and the shoulder 359 extends into the slot338. The clip 360 is placed over the connection bolt 344 and nestswithin a slot in the slider 358. Finally, the lock nut 364 threadablyengages the exit end 354 of the connection bolt 344, and abuts theslider 358. More particularly, the lock nut 364 serves to tighten theslider 358 and the washer 356 such that the slot 338 is entrapped by thewasher 356 and the slider 358. In a preferred embodiment, the washer 356and the slider 358 are made of a low friction plastic and areappropriately spaced to allow the connection bolt 344 to slide relativeto the slot 338 along the shoulder 359 of the slider 358.

Once assembled, the spring 362 is secured to the clip 362 and the neck328. Finally, the outlet 348 is connected to the tubing 311. Notably,the tubing 311 fluidly connects each of the plurality of suction cupbodies 334 to the pressure relief valve 298 (FIG. 9). Thus, a passivevacuum is available for each of the plurality of suction cup bodies 334.

With the above-described construction, the spring 362 biases the cupbody 334 toward the neck 328. As described in greater detail below,however, upon contact with a sheet of film (not shown) and rotation ofthe cup plate 230, the cup body 334 moves within the slot 338 when aforce sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the spring 362 isapplied to the cup body 334. While the retaining means 346 has beenpreferably described as including a number of components, such as thewasher 356 and the slider 358, other designs configured to allow thesuction cup bodies 334 to slide relative to the base 326 are alsoacceptable.

Returning to FIGS. 9 and 10, the film pick-up mechanism 50 isconstructed basically as follows. The retention frame 222 is secured tothe pick-up attachment housing 220 via screws, welding, etc. The driveframe 226 is slidably secured to the retention frame 220 over the frameslides 246. The drive means 224 is attached to the retention frame 222such that the pinion 272 engages the rack 270. The heel plate 228 isslidably secured to the drive frame 226 over the heel slides 296. Thecup plate 230 is pivotably attached to the heel plate 228 via theopposing pivot arms 336 such that the opposing pair of short rollers 330are disposed within the slots 302 of the drive frame 226, respectively.The biasing means 300 secures the cup plate 230 to the drive frame 226so as to bias the cup plate 230 upwardly relative to the driver frame226 about the hinge point 340. As will be described with reference tooperation of the film pick-up mechanism 50, the cup plate 230 isrotatable from a maximum bend position in which the cup plate 230 isnearly parallel to the heel plate 228, and a cup down position in whichthe cup plate 230 is approximately perpendicular to the heel plate 228.The biasing means 300 biases the cup plate 230 to the maximum bendposition. Additionally, the biasing means 300 biases the heel plate 228toward the cup plate 230, or downwardly relative to the drive frame 226.

With the above-described configuration, the drive frame 226 is slidablerelative to the retention frame 222. Further, the heel plate 228 isslidable relative to the drive frame 226. Finally, the cup plate 230 ispivotable relative to the heel plate 228. The drive means 224 controlsmovement of the drive frame 226 relative to the retention frame 222 suchthat the drive frame 226 is maneuvered between a home position, in whichthe head 294 is proximal the top wall 242 of the retention frame 228,and an extended position (FIG. 9). In the extended position, the biasingmeans 300 functions to bias the heel plate 228 such that the upper edge320 of the heel plate 228 is spaced from the head 294 of the drive frame226. During use, when the heel plate 228 contacts a stack of film, thedrive frame 226 slides downwardly relative to the heel plate 228 suchthat the upper edge 320 is proximal the head 294 of the drive frame 226.

Rotation of the cup plate 230 about the hinge point 340 is directed byinteraction of the opposing pair of short rollers 330 within the slots302 of the drive frame 226, as best shown in FIG. 14. For example, uponcontact of the film contact body 314 with an article, such as a stack offilm, further downward movement of the drive frame 226 imparts a forceon the opposing pair of short rollers 330 at the slots 302. This forceis translated to the hinge point 340, causing the cup plate 230 torotate. Thus, the cup plate 230 is rotatable between the maximum bendposition (FIG. 14) and the cup down position. In this regard, the cupplate 230 rotates through an arc of approximately 30-60°, preferably55°. It should be understood from the above discussion that in a basicform, the opposing pair of short rollers 330 serve as a drive arm fordirecting rotational movement of the cup plate 230, via the drive frame226, to pick up (or retrieve) and bend a sheet of film.

Interaction of the opposing pair of long rollers 332 with the retentionframe 222 is also best shown with reference to FIG. 12. Once again, thefilm pick-up mechanism 50 is shown in FIG. 12 with the drive frame 226in an extended position, while the cup plate 230 is in the maximum bendposition. An upward stroke of the drive means 224 maneuvers the driveframe 226 within the retention frame 222, during which the opposing pairof long rollers 332 (one of which is shown in FIG. 14) contacts theframe shelf 254. More particularly, the opposing pair of long rollers332 first contact the angled section 258 of the frame shelf 254. As thedrive frame 226 continues through the upward stroke, interaction of theopposing pair of long rollers 332 with the angled section 258 causes thecup plate 230 to pivot at the heel pivot point 340. Thus, the cup plate230 is maneuvered from the maximum bend position (FIG. 14) to the cupdown position. This preferred pivoting action of the cup plate 230relative to the drive frame 226 continues during the upward stroke, withthe opposing pair of long rollers 332 transferring from the angledsection 258 of the frame shelf 254 to the horizontal section 256. Itshould be understood from the above discussion that in a basic form, theopposing pair of long rollers 332 serve as a drive arm for directionrotational movement of the cup plate 230, via the frame shelf 254, tothe cup down position at the top of the upward stroke.

Before providing a detailed recitation on system operation, oneadditional feature of the film pick-up mechanism 50 is shown in FIG. 15.More particularly, an enlarged view of one of the separation tabs 128 isprovided. While the separation tabs 128 form a part of the preferredfilm pick-up mechanism 50 (FIG. 9), in one preferred embodiment, theseparation tabs 128 are integrally related with the film guard 64 of thecartridge receiving apparatus 48 previously described. While only one ofthe separation tabs 128 is shown in FIG. 15, it should be understoodthat in a preferred embodiment, two of the separation tabs 128 areprovided, one each at opposite sides of the film guard 64.

Each of separation tabs 128 includes an attachment end 370, anintermediate portion 372 and a beveled end 374. The attachment end 370is configured for attachment to the film guard 64. In a preferredorientation, the intermediate portion 372, including the beveled end374, extends from the film guard 64 and is free to move or flex relativeto the attachment end 370. To facilitate flexure of the intermediateportion 372 relative to the attachment end 370, the film guard 64preferably includes a notch 376.

As shown in FIG. 15, the separation tabs 128 have a length such that theintermediate portion 372, including the beveled end 374, extends fromthe film guard 64 over the film cartridge 44. In a preferred embodiment,the separation tabs 128 are made of a plastic material configured toallow flexure of the intermediate portion 372 relative to the attachmentend 370.

As will be made more clear by further discussion, the separation tabs128 are more properly described as being associated with the filmpick-up mechanism 50 (FIG. 9) because the separation tabs 128 act inconjunction with the cup plate 230 (FIG. 9) to separate sheets of film(not shown).

D. Operation of the Film Supply System 34

As previously described with reference to FIG. 1, the film supply system34 includes the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 and the film pick-upmechanism 50. For ease of illustration and understanding, operation ofthese components is shown in isolation in FIGS. 16-29.

Beginning with FIG. 16, the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 ispositioned to receive a film cartridge (not shown). More particularly,the elevator mechanism 68 is raised, such that the head 206 contacts thesocket 76 of the tray 60. As previously described, the tray 60 ispivotably secured to the guide frame 62 at the side wall 74. Thus, inthe raised position, the tray 60 angles downwardly within the guideframe 62 from the socket 76 toward the side wall 74. This angledorientation assists a user in sliding the film cartridge 44 within thetray 60, via the cartridge insertion path 78, so that the film cartridge44 abuts the side wall 74, as shown in FIG. 17. Notably, the filmcartridge 44 is shown in FIG. 17, and subsequent figures, as having asealed, foil cover 378.

Following placement of the film cartridge 44 within the tray 60, theelevator mechanism 68 is lowered to retract the tray 60 within the guideframe 62, as shown in FIG. 18. In this retracted position, the head 206of the elevator mechanism 68 completely disengages the socket 76 (notshown) of the tray 60. To ensure proper positioning of the filmcartridge 44 relative to the guide frame 62, the aperture locators 100,102 (FIG. 3) engage corresponding apertures (not shown) in the bottom ofthe film cartridge 44. Similarly, the support locators 104, 106 (FIG. 3)engage corresponding supports (not shown) in the bottom of the filmcartridge 44. These locators 100-106 provide for location of the filmcartridge 44 in three dimensions. Notably, the tapered configuration ofthe aperture locators 100, 102 facilitates engagement with the filmcartridge 44.

With the film cartridge 44 properly positioned within the guide frame62, the rollback mechanism 66 is activated. In particular, a controller(not shown) activates the rollback motor 148, rotating the elongatedshaft 146. The teeth 152 of the elongated shaft 146 engage a perforatedleading edge 380 of the foil cover 378 of the film cartridge 44. As theelongated shaft 146 continues to rotate, the elongated shaft 146,including the opposing ends 154, engage a forward lip of the filmcartridge 44. Because the foil cover 378 is sealed to the film cartridge44, a tension or resistance to the rotational movement of the elongatedshaft 146 is presented. The rollback motor 148 is sized to overcome thisresistance and continues rotating the elongated shaft 146 such that thefoil cover 378 wraps around the elongated shaft 146, as shown in FIG.19.

In conjunction with the wrapping motion, as the opposing ends 154 grip alip of the film cartridge 44, the entire rollback mechanism 66translates along the guide frame 62. More particularly, the carriage 140slides along the guide frame 62 as the opposing ends 154 contact thefilm cartridge 44. Notably, the opposing torsion springs 144 acts tomaintain contact between the opposing ends 154 and the film cartridge44.

In conjunction with movement of the rollback mechanism 66 along the filmcartridge 44, the film guard 64 is biased into an engagement position.As previously described, the film guard 64 is biased against the camsurface 156 of the rollback link 142a prior to activation of therollback mechanism 66. As the rollback mechanism 66, including theelongated shaft 146, moves away from the film guard 64, the biasingmeans 114 (FIG. 6) biases the film guard 64 toward the film cartridge44. In this regard, the rollback clearance tab 126 rides along the camsurface 156. Once the rollback mechanism 66 is clear of the film guard64, the film guard 64 nests against the film cartridge 44 as shown inFIG. 20. Notably, with reference to FIG. 20, the elevator mechanism 68retracts a sufficient distance from the tray 60 to allow passage of thecarriage 140 of the rollback mechanism 66. Thus, the elevator mechanism68 does not impede movement of the rollback mechanism 66 along an entirelength of the film cartridge 44.

The rollback mechanism 66 continues along a length of the film cartridge44, retracting/rolling the foil cover 378 of the film cartridge 44 for apredetermined time period or number of rotations of the elongated shaft146. Alternatively, a sensor can be provided along the guide frame 62 tosignal a controller (not shown) that the rollback mechanism 66 hasretracted enough of the foil cover 378 so that sheets of film maintainedwithin the film cartridge 44 can be removed.

Once a sufficient amount of the foil cover has been retracted, the filmpick-up mechanism 50 is activated, as shown in FIG. 21. Notably, forease of illustration, FIGS. 21-29 only show a portion of the cartridgereceiving apparatus 48 and the film cartridge 44. Finally, FIGS. 21-29also show a portion of the film transport system 42, including first andsecond feed rollers 382, 384. It should also be understood that FIGS.21-29 show the film pick-up mechanism 50 and the cartridge receivingapparatus 48 in a substantially upright position. It will be recalled,with reference to FIG. 1, however, that in a preferred embodiment, thefilm pick-up mechanism 50 and the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 arepreferably positioned at an angle within the imager housing 32 (FIG. 1).

Prior to activation, the film pick-up mechanism 50 is maintained in a"home" position, shown in FIG. 21. More particularly, the drive means224 has retracted the drive frame 226 and the heel plate 228 within theretention frame 222. Further, the cup plate 230 is positioned adjacentthe retention frame 222. Upon receiving a signal indicating that therollback mechanism 66 (FIG. 20) has ended its rollback movement, thecontroller (not shown) signals the drive means 224 to begin the downwardstroke. As shown in FIG. 22, the drive frame 226 and the heel plate 228extend downwardly from the retention frame 222. Further, the cup plate230 begins to rotate upwardly relative to the drive frame 226 viabiasing of the biasing means 300 (FIG. 11). Rotational movement of thecup plate 230 upwardly relative to the drive frame 226 is controlled bytranslation of the opposing pair of long rollers 332 along the frameshelf 254.

Downward movement of the drive frame 226 and the heel plate 228continues until the film contact body 314 contacts a top sheet of film386 maintained within the film cartridge 44, as shown in FIG. 23.Importantly, as the film pick-up mechanism 50 cycles through thedownward stroke, the cup plate 230 rotates upwardly relative to thedrive frame 226 such that the suction cups 342 do not contact the topsheet of film 386 prior to the film contact body 314. In other words,the film contact body 314 of the heel plate 228 is the first componentof the film pick-up mechanism 50 to contact the top sheet of film 386.

This preferred feature of the film pick-up mechanism 50 is important toavoid undesired engagement of the suction cups 342 with a bottom sheetof film or a liner otherwise disposed at a bottom of the film cartridge44. The standard film cartridge 44 normally includes a stack of film,with the last or bottom sheet of film, or bottom liner, having anopening designed to alert a user that the film cartridge 44 is empty.Recognizing this inherent design feature, the heel plate 228 includesthe first and second film sensors 318a and 318b (FIG. 9). The secondfilm sensor 318b is preferably positioned along the film contact body314 such that as the film contact body 314 enters the film cartridge 44,the second film sensor 318b is aligned with the above-described opening.

As the film pick-up mechanism 50 proceeds through its downward stroke,the first film sensor 318a (FIG. 9) will be activated upon contact withthe top sheet of film 386, if any film is in the film cartridge 44, orwith the bottom sheet or liner of the film cartridge 44. Upon contact,the first film sensor 318a sends a signal to the controller (not shown)indicating that the film contact body 314 is about to contact the topsheet of film 386, or the bottom sheet or liner within the filmcartridge 44. At this exact moment, the controller determines the statusof the second film sensor 318b. If the second film sensor 318b is alsoindicating contact, the controller determines that at least one sheet ofacceptable film is within the film cartridge 44 and continues cycling.However, if the second film sensor 318b is not activated, because thesecond film sensor 318b has proceeded through an opening in the bottomsheet or liner in the film cartridge 44, the controller returns the filmpick-up mechanism 50 to the home position, and provides a signal to anoperator that the film cartridge 44 is empty.

Assuming that at least one acceptable sheet of film is present in thefilm cartridge 44, such as the top sheet of film 386 as shown in FIGS.21-29, the drive means 224 continues through the downward stroke. Asshown in FIG. 24, upon contact of the film contact body 314 with the topsheet of film 386, downward movement of the heel plate 228 is basicallystopped. However, because the heel plate 228 is slidably received withinthe drive frame 226, continuation of the downward stroke forces thedriver frame 226 downward relative to the film cartridge 44. In otherwords, the heel plate 228 remains stationary while the drive frame 226continues downward, sliding relative to the heel plate 228.

Downward movement of the drive frame 226 translates a force onto the cupplate 230 via interaction of the opposing pair of short rollers 330(FIG. 9) within the respective slots 302 of the drive frame 226, causingthe cup plate 230 to pivot relative to the heel plate 228 at the pivotpoint 340. Thus, continued downward motion of the drive frame 226following contact of the heel plate 228 with the top sheet of film 386causes the cup plate 230 to rotate until the suction cups 342 engage thetop sheet of film 386. The top sheet of film 386 is secured to thesuction cups 342 by a positive vacuum so that an external vacuum sourceis not required. However, where additional suction is desired, anexternal source can be provided.

The downward stroke of the drive means 224 is stopped when thecontroller (not shown) receives an appropriate signal from the cupengage sensor 316 (FIG. 9). As previously described, once the filmcontact body 314 of the heel plate 228 contacts the top sheet of film386, the heel plate 228 no longer moves downwardly. However, the driveframe 226 continues its downward motion, sliding relative to the heelplate 228. At a certain point during this sliding motion, the cup engagesensor 316 will sense the presence of the sensor tab 304 (FIG. 9)otherwise associated with the drive frame 226. The distance between thecup engage sensor 316 and a leading edge of the sensor tab 304 ispredetermined such that the sensor tab 304 engages the cup engage sensor316 at a position whereby the cup plate 230 is fully rotated into thecup down position and the suction cups 342 contact the top sheet of film386. Upon receiving a signal from the cup engage sensor 316 that thesensor tab 304 has been engaged, the controller then stops the downwardstroke of the drive means 224. With this configuration then, the filmpick-up mechanism 50 of the present invention accounts for differentstack heights of film within the film cartridge 44 as the downwardstroke will continue until a signal is received from the cup engagesensor 316.

Once the downward stroke of the drive means 224 has ended, the upwardstroke is initiated. During the initial stages of the upward stroke, thedrive frame 226 moves upwardly while the heel plate 228 remainsstationary relative to the top sheet of film 386. This stationarypositioning of the heel plate 228 is dictated by the biasing means 300(FIG. 9), which forces the heel plate 228 away from the drive frame 226.While the heel plate 228 remains stationary, upward motion of the driveframe 226 allows the cup plate 230 to rotate about the pivot point 340,toward the heel plate 228. This preferred rotational movement isaccomplished by the previously described rotational biasing of the cupplate 230 upwardly relative to the heel plate 228 via the biasing means300. Further, the opposing pair of short rollers 330 (FIG. 9) areallowed to translate through the slots 302 of the drive frame 226.

Importantly, with additional reference to FIG. 11, the cup plate 230 isconfigured to allow slight movement of the suction cups 342 relative tothe base 326 during the upward stroke. It should be remembered that asthe cup plate 230 rotates upward to the maximum bend position, the filmcontact body 314 remains stationary. Thus, the portion of the top sheetof film 386 engaged by the film contact body 314 also does not move. Asthe cup plate 230 rotates, the portion of the top sheet of film 386attached to the suction cups 342 pulls away from the portion engaged bythe film contact body 314. If the suction cups 342 were permanentlysecured to the cup plate 230, the suction cups 342 would deform, losesuction and fail to retain the top sheet of film 386. Instead, however,the suction cups 342 are allowed to slide within the slots 338 of thecup plate 230 so that the cup plate 230 can fully rotate withoutbreaking the vacuum contact with the top sheet of film 386.

As shown in FIG. 25, which is a top view into the film cartridge 44,once upward motion of the drive frame 226 is sufficient so that the cupplate 230 is fully retracted (the maximum bend position), a compoundbend is formed in the top sheet of film 386. More particularly, the topsheet of film 386 bends upwardly from the film contact body 314 to thesuction cups 342; and bends downwardly from the suction cups 342 to theseparation tabs 128. Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the top sheet offilm 386 is maintained by the separation tabs 128. Additionally, due tothe beveled section 374 of the separation tabs 128, the top sheet offilm 386 bends inwardly at corners 389 along the beveled section 374, ina bend plane different from the bend plane generated by the film contactbody 314 and the suction cups 342. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, acompound bend in the top sheet of film 386 is formed.

In a preferred embodiment, the film pick-up mechanism 50 is configuredsuch that the cup plate 230 rotates approximately 55° from horizontal inthe maximum bend position. Thus, the top sheet of film 386 bends atapproximately a 55° angle from the film contact body 314 to the suctioncups 342.

The bend in the top sheet of film 386 creates a separation force betweenthe top sheet of film 386 and other sheets of film which may otherwisebe adhered to the top sheet of film 386, because a beam strength of thefilm resists bending. When the separation force exceeds an interfaceforce sticking the sheets together, the top sheet of film 386 separatesfrom the remaining sheets of film. Obviously, the greater the bendingaction and the longer the sheets are held under bending, the more likelythe sheets will separate. The compound bend created in the top sheet offilm 386 from the suction cup 342 to the separation tabs 128 providesadditional film bending, or bowing, that enhances film separation. Inthis regard, the separation tabs 128 are preferably provided with thebeveled end 374 to impart a transverse bowing into the top sheet of film386. To ensure separation between the top sheet of film 386 and othersheets of film, the drive means 224 pauses at the maximum bend positionshown in FIG. 25 for approximately three seconds. This pause ensuresthat only the top sheet of film 386 remains attached to the suction cups342, as shown in FIG. 26.

Following film separation, the upward stroke of the drive means 224continues, causing the drive frame 226 and the heel plate 228 to moveupward. Notably, the cup plate 230 remains in the maximum bend positionrelative to the drive frame 226 such that as the drive frame 226, theheel plate 228 and the cup plate 230 move upwardly, a leading edge 388of the top sheet of film 386 clears the first feed roller 382, as shownin FIG. 27. In other words, due to rotational retraction of the cupplate 230 to the maximum bend position, the top layer of film 386 willnot accidentally contact first feed roller 382. Effectively then,rotation of the cup plate 230 serves two purposes with one motion.First, rotation of the cup plate 230 accomplishes necessary filmseparation. Second, following rotation, the leading end 388 of the topsheet of film 386 is properly positioned to clear the first feed roller382.

As the upward stroke continues, the opposing pair of long rollers 332contact the angled section 258 of the frame shelf 254. Interactionbetween these components forces the cup plate 230 to rotate at the hingepoint 340 from the maximum bend position to the cup down position as theopposing pair of long rollers 332 translate along the frame shelf 254.Rotation of the cup plate 230 via the frame shelf 254 positions theleading end 388 of the top sheet of film 386 between the first andsecond feed rollers 382, 384 as shown in FIG. 28. Additionally, as thecup plate 230 rotates, the suction cups 342 slide within the slots 338(FIG. 12) in the cup plate 230 to move the leading end 388 toward thefeed rollers 382, 384.

Once the upward stroke of the film pickup mechanism 50 reaches the filmdelivery position shown in FIG. 28, the controller (not shown) issignalled to close the film transport system 42. More particularly, thefirst and second feed rollers 382, 384 are driven closed to secure thetop sheet of film 386. The film delivery position is signalled to thecontroller via the driver sensor 248 (FIG. 9). With reference to FIG. 9,as the drive frame 226 slides upwardly within the retention frame 222,the drive positioning tab 301 passes into the driver sensor 248. In thisregard, the driver sensor 248 and the drive positioning tab 301 arespecifically arranged such that the drive positioning tab 301 firstcontacts the driver sensor 248 when the cup plate 230 has beentranslated to the position shown in FIG. 28. Upon receiving a signalfrom the driver sensor 248, the controller activates the film transportsystem 42 such that the top sheet of film 386 is secured or pinchedbetween the first and second feed rollers 382, 384.

As the upward stroke continues, the pressure relief valve 298 contactsthe plunger 250. As previously described, the pressure relief valve 298is fluidly connected to the suction cups 342 so that a passive vacuum iscreated between the suction cups 342 and the top layer of film 386. Asthe stem 310 (FIG. 9) of the pressure relief valve 298 contacts theshaft 264 of the plunger 250, fluid within the pressure relief valve 298is released, disengaging the top sheet of film 386 from the suction cups342.

Although the top sheet of film 386 has been released, the upward strokeof the drive means 224 continues, with the cup plate 230 rotating at thehinge point 340 to the cup extended position via interaction of theopposing pair of long rollers 332 with the frame shelf 254, as shown inFIG. 29. Notably, because the plunger 250 is spring loaded, it did notpresent a hard stop to the pressure relief valve 298. In other words,upward motion of the drive frame 226 following contact between thepressure relief valve 298 and the plunger 250 is not impeded as thespring 266 (FIG. 9) allows some degree of further travel.

Once the film pick-up mechanism 50 is in the home position, thecontroller (not shown) is signalled by the driver sensor 248 (FIG. 9) toactivate the film transport system 42. With reference again to FIG. 9,the drive positioning tab 301 is sized so that as the drive frame 226continues upward relative to the retention frame 222, the tab 301 willpass entirely through the driver sensor 248. In this regard, once thedrive positioning tab 301 clears the driver sensor 248, the driversensor 248 delivers a representative signal to the controller,indicating that the film pick-up mechanism 50 has reached the homeposition. Upon receiving this signal, the controller deactivates thedrive means 224, and activates the film transport system 42 to drive thetop sheet of film 386 from the film cartridge 44.

The above-described process is repeated as additional sheets of film arecalled for by the imager 30 (FIG. 1). As previously described, the filmpick-up mechanism 50 will continue the film retrieval, separation anddelivery cycling until it is determined that the film cartridge 44 isempty. Once the empty, the cartridge receiving apparatus 48 is activatedto unroll the foil cover 378 (FIG. 18) for subsequent removal by anoperator.

The film supply system of the present invention provides a markedimprovement over previous designs. In this regard, both the cartridgereceiving apparatus and the film pick-up mechanism present uniquefeatures. The cartridge receiving apparatus reduces overall sizerequirements for the imager housing by maintaining a film cartridge inan angular orientation, as opposed to horizontal, within the imagerhousing. Additionally, by providing a film cartridge insertion in aplane normal to the subsequent film travel path, the cartridge receivingapparatus of the present invention eliminates the need for two accesspoints in the imager housing. Finally, the unique construction andoperation of the cartridge receiving apparatus of the present inventionmeets all the requirements for use within an imager, such as maintainingand opening a film cartridge, but with a reduction in parts andtherefore costs.

Similarly, the film pick-up mechanism consistently separates anddelivers sheets of film with a single device. The film pick-up mechanismutilizes a novel approach whereby a rotatable cup plate and separationtabs combine to separate sheets of film. Further, the unique combinationof a retention frame, drive frame, heel plate and cup plate results in asingularly associated device which achieves film delivery to thetransport system with minimal parts, and therefore costs, by translatingthe film sheets through a straightforward camming movement.

It will be understood that this disclosure, in many respects, is onlyillustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters ofshape, size, material, and arrangement of parts without exceeding thescope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is asdefined in the language of the appended claims. For example, filmseparation can be achieved without the preferred separation tabs. Evenfurther, the cup plate can be configured to separate sheets of filmthrough a rotational motion. As shown in FIG. 30, an alternative cupplate 400 can include a curved heel 402 and suction cups 404 (one ofwhich is shown in FIG. 30) for separating sheets of film 406. Byrotating the cup plate 400 from position 1 to position 2, a single sheetof film will remain attached to the suction cups 404. The curved heel402 is slid or "rolled" along the surface of the top sheet of film 406,resulting in an offset L. The offset distance L is equal to the arclength of the curved heel 402. Rotation of the curved heel 402 creates aspring force in the sheets of film 406. When this spring force isgreater than the interface force between sheets of film 406, separationresults. Additionally, the effective increase in radius (R1, R2, R3)with subsequent sheets of film will create a relative motion to the left(with the orientation shown in FIG. 30) on the axis of rotation as shownat position 2. This relative motion will assist in separating sheets offilm.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mechanism for use in an imager to separate sheets of photosensitive film from a film cartridge and deliver individual sheets of photosensitive film to a film transport system, the mechanism comprising:a retention frame configured for attachment within an imager; a drive frame slidably mounted within the retention frame; drive means for moving the drive frame relative to the retention frame; a heel plate extending from the drive frame opposite the retention frame; and a cup plate pivotably attached to the heel plate, the cup plate including a suction cup for selectively engaging a sheet of photosensitive film and a first drive arm for directing pivoting movement of the cup plate relative to the heel plate.
 2. The mechanism of claim 1, further comprising:biasing means for rotatably biasing the cup plate upwardly relative to the heel plate.
 3. The mechanism of claim 1, wherein the suction cup is configured to provide passive vacuum pressure upon contact with a sheet of film.
 4. The mechanism of claim 3, further comprising:a pressure relief valve associated with the drive frame; and a tube fluidly connecting the suction cup to the pressure relief valve such that the pressure relief valve selectively releases vacuum pressure in the suction cup.
 5. The mechanism of claim 4, wherein the retention frame includes a plunger positioned to contact the pressure relief valve during the upward stroke.
 6. The mechanism of claim 5, wherein the plunger is spring loaded.
 7. The mechanism of claim 1, wherein the drive means is configured to move the drive frame from a first, raised position to a second, lowered position relative to the retention frame in a downward stroke, and from the lowered position to the raised position in an upward stroke.
 8. The mechanism of claim 7, wherein the cup includes a body forming a slot sized to slidably receive a portion of the suction cup, the slot being orientated substantially perpendicular to an axis of the suction cup, and a biasing means for biasing the suction cup within the slot.
 9. The mechanism of claim 7, further comprising:a housing for maintaining sheets of film, including a separation tab associated with the cup plate in the lowered position, the separation tab being configured to contact a sheet of film engaged by the suction cup during the upward stroke.
 10. The mechanism of claim 9, wherein the housing forms a cartridge receiving container for maintaining a cartridge of film.
 11. The mechanism of claim 7, wherein the drive means includes a rack attached to the drive frame and a motor driven pinion associated with the retention frame.
 12. The mechanism of claim 7, wherein the cup plate further includes a pivot arm configured for pivotable attachment to the heel plate.
 13. The mechanism of claim 7, wherein the first drive arm is configured to direct the cup plate to pivot relative to the heel plate between a first, cup down position and a second, film bend position.
 14. The mechanism of claim 13, wherein the first drive arm extends from a body of the cup plate and further including a roller attached at an end of the first drive arm opposite the body.
 15. The mechanism of claim 14, wherein the drive frame includes a slot sized to receive the roller of the first drive arm, the slot being configured to translate a force from the drive frame to the roller.
 16. The mechanism of claim 7, wherein the cup plate further includes a second drive arm for directing movement of the cup plate in the raised position of the drive frame.
 17. The mechanism of claim 16, wherein the second drive arm is configured to direct the cup plate to pivot relative to the heel plate between a first, substantially vertical position when the drive frame is in the lowered position, and a second, substantially horizontal position when the drive frame is in the raised position.
 18. The mechanism of claim 17, wherein the second drive arm extends from a body of the cup plate and further including a roller attached at an end of the second drive arm opposite the body.
 19. The mechanism of claim 18, wherein the retention frame includes a shelf positioned to abut the roller in the raised position of the drive frame.
 20. The mechanism of claim 7, further comprising:a controller for controlling movement of the drive means.
 21. The mechanism of claim 20, further comprising:a cup engage sensor associated with the drive frame for sensing a rotational position of the cup plate relative to the drive frame.
 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the cup sensor is configured to provide a signal to the controller indicative of the rotational position of the cup plate.
 23. The apparatus of claim 20, further comprising:a film sensor associated with the heel plate for sensing presence of film within a film containing housing associated with the film pick-up mechanism and providing a signal to the controller indicative thereof.
 24. A method of retrieving sheets of photosensitive film from a stack of film within an imager, the method including:providing a film pick-up mechanism within an imager, the film pick-up mechanism including a heel plate pivotably connected to a cup plate having a suction cup; placing a stack of photosensitive film within a film tray disposed within the imager such that the stack of film is maintained below the film pick-up mechanism; moving the heel plate toward the stack of film such that the heel plate contacts a top sheet of film; securing the suction cup to the top sheet of film; bending the top sheet of film to separate the top sheet of film from other sheets in the stack of film; delivering the top sheet of film to a film transport system; wherein bending the top sheet of film includes imparting a bend into the top sheet of film sufficient to overcome an interface force between the top sheet of film and other sheets of film; wherein the cup plate is rotatable relative to the heel plate from a first, bend position to a second, cup down position and wherein the film tray includes a separation tab extending above the stack of film, and wherein imparting a bend includes:rotating the cup plate from the cup down position to the bend position such that the top sheet of film bends upwardly from the heel plate to the suction cup and downwardly from the suction cup to the separation tab.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the top sheet of film includes a leading edge, and wherein bending the top sheet of film includes:positioning the suction cup and the heel plate in close proximity to the leading edge of the top sheet of film.
 26. The method of claim of claim 24, wherein delivering the top sheet of film includes moving the cup plate in the bend position to the film transport system.
 27. The method of claim 24, wherein imparting a bend includes imparting a compound bend in the top sheet of film.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the separation tab includes a beveled portion transverse to a leading edge of the top sheet of film, and wherein imparting a compound bend further includes:bending the top sheet of film along the beveled portion of the separation tab.
 29. The method of claim 24, wherein the cup plate is rotatable relative to the heel plate from a first, bend position to a second, cup down position and wherein securing the suction cup to the top sheet of film includes:rotating the cup plate from the bend position to the cup down position such that the suction cup contacts the top sheet of film; and creating a vacuum between the suction cup and the top sheet of film.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein a passive vacuum is created between the suction cup and the top sheet of film.
 31. The method of claim 24, wherein the cup plate is rotatable relative to the heel plate from a first, bend position to a second, cup down position and wherein imparting a bend includes:rotating the cup plate from the cup down position to the bend position while the heel plate remains in contact with the top sheet of film.
 32. The method of claim 31, wherein imparting a bend further includes sliding the top sheet of film relative to other sheets of film in the stack of film.
 33. The method of claim 24, wherein delivering the top sheet of film includes:moving the cup plate upward such that the top sheet of film is positioned within the film transport system; and releasing the top sheet of film from the suction cup.
 34. The method of claim 33, wherein delivering the top sheet of film further includes:raising the cup plate in a substantially vertical fashion such that a leading end of the top sheet of film clears the film transport system; and translating the cup plate in a substantially horizontal fashion such that the leading end of the top sheet of film enters the film transport system.
 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the film transport system includes a pair of rollers configured to deliver the sheets of film to an exposure module, and wherein the leading end of the top sheet of film avoids contact with the pair of rollers when raising the cup plate in a substantially vertical fashion. 